Sometimes, you hold on to things without even realizing why. These habits or items become part of your routine, even when they no longer serve a purpose.
You might be keeping more clutter, habits, or stuff than you really need, just out of habit. Recognizing these can help you clear space in your life and make things simpler.
Unused gym clothes
You probably have gym clothes you barely wear. Maybe they don’t fit well or feel uncomfortable.
Old workout clothes can also hold sweat and bacteria, which makes them smell bad even after washing. If you haven’t worn some in months, it’s okay to let them go. Keeping them out of habit just takes up space and adds clutter.
Expired coupons
You might be holding on to expired coupons out of habit. They often pile up without you realizing it.
Check your coupons once in a while and toss the ones past their date. Some stores may still accept them a few days after expiration, so it doesn’t hurt to ask. If you want, you can donate expired coupons to groups like the military, where they can still be useful.
Old chargers and cables
You probably have a bunch of old chargers and cables lying around. Most of the time, you don’t need them unless you still have the devices they belong to.
If you’re not sure what a cable is for, it’s okay to toss or recycle it. Keeping too many cables just creates clutter and makes it harder to find what you really need.
Receipts from months ago
You probably keep old receipts just in case. But most receipts lose their use after a few weeks or months.
If you’re done with returns or tracking spending, those papers only add clutter.
Keep receipts only until warranties end or you’re sure you won’t need them. Otherwise, toss them and clear some space.
Mismatched socks
You probably keep mismatched socks because you think they might find their pair someday. But they often just take up space and create clutter.
Instead of tossing them, you can use them for dusting or cleaning around the house. This way, they get a second life without crowding your drawer.
Empty jars you might use someday
You probably have empty jars saved because you think you might need them later. Maybe for storing leftovers or organizing small stuff.
But most of the time, they just take up space. If you don’t use them regularly, chances are you won’t use them at all. Try letting some go and see how much more room you get. You can always buy new ones if you really need them.
Old magazines and newspapers
You probably keep old magazines and newspapers because you think you might need them later. But most of the time, they just take up space and create clutter.
If there are pages with useful ideas, tear them out and put them in a binder. Toss the rest to free up room and clear your mind.
Plastic containers without lids
You probably have plastic containers missing their lids tucked away. Without lids, these containers lose their purpose and just take up space.
If you want to keep them, try to find matching lids or use them for non-food storage. Otherwise, it’s okay to recycle or toss them to clear out clutter.
Single earrings without their pair
You might have single earrings lying around with no match. Instead of tossing them, you can get creative.
Try turning one into a necklace pendant or gluing it onto something small like a picture frame. You can also store single earrings in tiny bags to keep them safe for when you find their pair.
Old planners and calendars
You probably keep old planners and calendars out of habit, thinking you might need them later. But most of the time, they just take up space.
Try writing down any important memories or events from them, then recycle the paper. You can also reuse old planners as journals or for doodling. This way, you give them a new purpose without the clutter.
Shoes that don’t fit anymore
You probably have shoes that don’t fit right but you keep them anyway. These shoes can cause discomfort or even pain when you wear them.
It’s better to let go of shoes that are too tight, loose, or worn out. Clearing them out makes space for shoes that fit well and feel good. You’ll avoid blisters and foot problems by only wearing shoes that suit your feet.
Random keys with unknown purpose
You probably have a few random keys that you don’t know what they open. Maybe they came with old furniture or were handed down.
These keys take up space and weigh down your keyring. If you haven’t used them in years, they’re likely useless to you.
Try to let go of them. Keeping keys you don’t need just adds clutter and confusion when you search for the one you actually use.
Dried-out pens
You probably keep old pens that have dried out without thinking twice. Instead of tossing them, try soaking the tip in warm water for 15-20 minutes. This can often bring them back to life.
If the pen still doesn’t work, soaking the nib in rubbing alcohol can help. Don’t forget to store your pens with the cap on to avoid drying out in the future.
Stack of business cards
You probably keep a big pile of business cards from events or meetings. Most of the time, you don’t use them later.
Carrying all those cards can just feel like extra clutter. It’s smarter to keep only the cards you really need or plan to contact. If you don’t want to toss them, consider organizing or digitizing them. That way, they won’t take up space or get lost.
Clothing with tiny tears you never fixed
You probably have clothes with small tears or holes that you just ignore. Those tiny problems don’t seem like a big deal at first. But over time, they can grow and ruin your favorite pieces.
Fixing these small tears early keeps your clothes lasting longer. A quick stitch or patch can save you money and the hassle of replacing them. It’s easy to forget, but taking a few minutes helps your wardrobe stay in good shape.